Application for CMU Scholarship opens April 10th

Washington Sensory Disabilities Services (WSDS) is pleased to collaborate with Central Michigan University (CMU). CMU provides an undergraduate certificate program – DeafBlind Intervener – which can lead to a national credential. (Read the info below carefully and see the CMU flier).

Training Design:

The training, which runs from Fall to Spring includes:

  • Online course of study, hosted by faculty at CMU
  • Coaching and consultation from a WSDS/Deafblind Program mentor
  • WSDS will provide a limited number of scholarships covering tuition costs for WA State professionals
  • CMU Program Flier (PDF)

Scholarship Candidates will need:

  • To have employment with a WA school district providing one-to-one support for a student with deafblindness
  • Have the support of administrators and the student’s educational team to participate in the training

Participant Responsibilities:

  • Complete WSDS scholarship application by May 9, 2025
  • Ask your supervisor/administrator to write a letter of support
  • Commit to complete the course of study, including all assignments
  • Participate in three onsite coaching sessions with WSDS/Deafblind Program mentor

Apply online by May 9, 2025:

A limited number of scholarships for the CMU DBI Program are available, thanks to Washington Sensory Disabilities Services/OSPI funding.

2025 Program Timeline

Important Dates Tasks
April 10 Application process opens (Washington State residents only)
May 9 Deadline to submit application and required documents
May 12-16 Committee review of applications
May 20 Scholarships awarded – applicants notified
May 30 Recipient must confirm acceptance of scholarship award
Mid-June CMU program applications open
Late August CMU DBI program begins

National Definition of Intervener Services in Educational Settings:

Interveners, through the provision of intervener services, provide access to information and communication and facilitate the development of social and emotional well-being for children who are deafblind. Intervener services are provided by an individual, typically a paraeducator, who has received specialized training in deafblindness and the process of intervention. An intervener provides consistent one-to-one support to a student who is deafblind (ages 3 through 21 or as mandated by state regulations) throughout the instructional day.

Read the entire NCDB article (PDF)